Teething Milestones: What to Expect and When

Teething is an important milestone for babies, which can cause discomfort and pain. Parents need to be able to recognize the signs of teething and know how to care for their baby's teeth during this time. In this article, we will provide information on how to care for teething babies, including the symptoms of teething, the remedies and relief you can give your child, and tips for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Knowing when your baby is teething is the first step in caring for your little one's teeth

Teething Milestones: What to Expect and When

Teething is a significant developmental milestone that can be an exciting yet challenging time for parents and their little ones. It refers to the process by which a baby's first teeth emerge through the gums, usually starting around six months of age. While the timeline of teething can vary from baby to baby, understanding what to expect and when can help parents better prepare for this exciting stage.

The Teething Process

The process of teething begins when the baby's gums start to become sore and swollen. The baby may become irritable, cranky, or have trouble sleeping, eating or drinking. As the teeth begin to emerge through the gums, the baby may experience pain, which can cause them to cry or fuss more than usual. Other symptoms may include drooling, a mild fever, a rash around the mouth or chin, and a desire to bite or chew on anything within reach.

Typically, babies will begin to teeth with their lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth, then the molars, and finally, the canine teeth. By the time the baby is around two or three years old, they will have all their 20 primary teeth.

When to Expect Teething

While teething usually begins around six months of age, it can vary. Some babies may start teething as early as three months, while others may not begin until 12 months or later. In general, the timeline for teething is as follows:

• Lower front teeth (central incisors) – six to ten months
• Upper front teeth (central incisors) – eight to 12 months
• Upper lateral incisors (either side of the central incisors) – nine to 13 months
• Lower lateral incisors (either side of the central incisors) – ten to 16 months
• First molars (upper and lower) – 13 to 19 months
• Canine teeth (upper and lower) – 16 to 23 months
• Second molars (upper and lower) – 25 to 33 months

It's important to note that these timelines are just guidelines, and some babies may experience teething outside of these ranges.

How to Soothe Teething Pain

Teething can be a difficult time for babies and their parents, but there are ways to help ease the pain and discomfort. 

Here are some tips to soothe teething pain:

1. Offer a teething ring: A teething ring made of firm rubber can be a great way to ease teething pain. Refrigerate the teething ring for extra relief.
2. Massage the gums: Gently massaging the baby's gums with a clean finger or a soft cloth can help to relieve discomfort.
3. Offer cool foods: Cold foods such as yogurt, pureed fruits, and vegetables can provide relief.
4. Try over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter pain relief gels, such as those containing benzocaine, can help to numb the gums and ease pain.
5. Use a pacifier: A pacifier can help to soothe a fussy baby and provide some relief.
6. Give plenty of cuddles: Sometimes all a baby needs is a little extra love and attention to feel better.

• Keeping your baby's mouth clean is vital during the teething phase. 
• To soothe your baby's sore gums, wipe them with a clean gauze pad or washcloth.
•  A toothbrush can also be used in older babies but make sure to use a soft-bristled brush and only use water, no toothpaste as it can be difficult to rinse off the baby's mouth.
•  Fluoride toothpaste should be saved until after their first birthday. 
• Teething can also cause problems with sleep patterns. Giving your baby solid foods or applesauce can make them feel fuller, promoting better sleep. 
• When breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your baby, try chilled bottles or pacifiers to soothe sore gums.

When to Call the Doctor

While teething is a natural process, there are times when it's important to call the doctor. Here are some signs that may indicate a problem:

• High fever: While a mild fever can be a symptom of teething, a high fever (above 101°F) is not normal and may indicate an infection.

• Diarrhea or vomiting: While teething can cause some changes in bowel movements, persistent diarrhea or vomiting is not normal and may indicate a more serious issue.

 In summary, caring for teething babies involves paying close attention to their teething symptoms, using teething remedies to relieve pain and discomfort, cleaning their gums, and maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine. With proper care and attention, you can help your baby navigate this special milestone and enjoy their new teeth as they emerge.